Makalu Base Camp Trek 20 Days | Itinerary, Map, and Cost
Trip Overview
The Makalu Base Camp Trek crosses the biodiverse Arun Valley to reach the foot of the world’s fifth-highest mountain, Mt. Makalu (8,485 m). This trail cuts through the Makalu Barun National Park, a protected area recognized for its rare wildlife, including the Red Panda, and its diverse ecological zones ranging from tropical forests to alpine tundra.
This trek is an ideal choice if you prioritize solitude, raw wilderness, and high-altitude challenges over luxury lodges.
This is a 20-day trip, of which 14 days are spent trekking from Num to Makalu Base Camp and back.
The remaining six days cover travel, acclimatization, and sightseeing.
Makalu Base Camp is located in the eastern Sankhuwasabha district of Nepal.
It is often overshadowed by the neighboring Everest region, keeping the trails quiet and pristine.
This region remains a strict camping or basic teahouse destination, offering a “back-to-the-roots” trekking experience.
The valley is accessible via a flight to Tumlingtar followed by a rugged drive to Num.
The Government of Nepal protects this region under the Makalu Barun National Park to preserve its unique cloud forests and endangered species.
Foreign trekkers must obtain national park and rural municipality permits and trekking with a licensed guide is highly recommended due to the remote nature of the trail.
Travel To Nepal guides possess deep expertise in eastern Nepal’s remote routes.
We follow strict safety protocols for crossing high passes like the Shipton La.
What Are the Main Attractions of the Trek?
The Makalu Base Camp Trek offers 10 key attractions including rare wildlife sightings, high passes, and glacial lakes, which are listed below:
- Solitude and Wilderness: The trail receives significantly fewer trekkers than Everest or Annapurna, ensuring a quiet, immersive nature experience.
- Mt. Makalu (8,485 m): The destination offers an unobstructed, close-up view of the South Face of Makalu, a pyramid of rock and ice.
- Barun Valley: This hanging U-shaped valley is a sanctuary for rare orchids and diverse rhododendron species, often called a “living laboratory” for botanists.
- Shipton La Pass (4,170 m): You will cross this dramatic high pass, which offers panoramic views of Chamlang (7,319 m) and Makalu.
- Views of Everest and Lhotse: From high ridges like Khongma Danda, you can view the Kangshung (Eastern) face of Mt. Everest and Lhotse.
- Rare Wildlife: The park is home to the endangered Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Musk Deer, and Himalayan Black Bear.
- Glacial Lakes: The route passes sacred high-altitude lakes like Kalo Pokhari, often shrouded in mist and local legends.
- Ethnic Diversity: You will walk through villages inhabited by Rai, Sherpa, and Gurung communities, observing their distinct agricultural practices.
- Barun Glacier: The trail follows the lateral moraine of this massive glacier, providing a raw lesson in Himalayan geology.
- Tropical to Alpine Transition: The trek showcases a rapid elevation gain, moving from humid, low-altitude farming terraced fields to snow-covered alpine ridges in mere days.
Who Is This Trek Right For?
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is highly recommended if you are an experienced trekker who seeks raw wilderness, physical challenge, and distance from commercial crowds.
We have listed additional criteria below so you can determine whether this trek is a good fit for you:
- Trek Difficulty: Strenuous. You will walk an average of 6–8 hours per day, with multiple days involving steep stone stairs and high-altitude pass crossings.
- Accommodation: Basic. Lodges are simple wood-and-stone structures with shared bathrooms, minimal insulation, and limited solar electricity.
- Food and dietary options: Vegetarian and local meals are available. Options are more limited than in Everest; expect simple Dal Bhat, noodle soups, and potatoes.
- Age requirement: No legal age limit. However, we recommend this trek for ages 18 to 60 due to the physical rigor. Minors must be accompanied by experienced guardians.
- Group size: Flexible. We arrange private or small group treks to ensure safety and personalized attention in this remote region.
Makalu Base Camp Trek Complete Itinerary
This 20-day Makalu Base Camp itinerary outlines each stage of the journey with elevation details, route segments, and key highlights for every day.
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu City
Trekkers arrive at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), receive a private hotel transfer, and attend a pre-trek briefing.
Overview
- Meals Included: None
- Average Elevation: 1,300 meters / 4,265 feet
- Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Full Description
Upon arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport, you will complete the on-arrival visa process.
After clearing customs, our representative will greet you and escort you to your hotel.
The remainder of the day allows you to recover from jet lag.
In the evening, we conduct a pre-trek briefing to introduce your guide, check your gear, and finalize permits.
This is the time to verify your sleeping bag and down jacket, as temperatures in the Barun Valley drop significantly.
Day 2: Kathmandu sightseeing and Trek Preparation
Trekkers visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites while our team finalizes the Makalu Barun National Park permits.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast
- Average Elevation: 1,300 meters / 4,265 feet
- Sightseeing Duration: 3–4 hours
- Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Full Description
You spend the day exploring cultural landmarks such as Swayambhunath Stupa or Pashupatinath Temple.
While you sightsee, our office team secures the necessary restricted area and national park permits.
Use the afternoon to purchase any missing gear in Thamel, such as water purification tablets or trekking poles, which are essential for the rugged steps ahead.
Day 3: Fly to Tumlingtar and Drive to Num
Trekkers take a 45-minute scenic flight to Tumlingtar followed by a 4-hour off-road drive to Num.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 1,560 meters / 5,118 feet
- Travel Duration: 45 min flight, 4 hours drive
- Overnight Stay: Num
Full Description
The flight to Tumlingtar offers sweeping views of the Langtang and Everest ranges.
Upon landing in the humid Arun Valley, you board a jeep for a rough drive to Num.
The road winds through lush tea gardens and small villages.
Num is situated on a ridge overlooking the Arun River, offering your first glimpse of the deep valley you will cross tomorrow.
Day 4: Trek from Num to Seduwa
Trekkers descend steeply to the Arun River and ascend equally steeply to Seduwa, the entry point of Makalu Barun National Park.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 1,500 meters / 4,921 feet
- Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
- Trek Difficulty: Moderate
- Overnight Stay: Seduwa
Full Description
The trail drops sharply through cornfields and wet forests to the Arun River (660 m).
After crossing the suspension bridge, you face a long, steep climb to Seduwa.
The heat here can be intense, so carry sufficient water.
At Seduwa, we check in our permits at the National Park checkpoint.
This village has a school and several teahouses, marking the start of the protected area.
Day 5: Trek from Seduwa to Tashigaon
Trekkers walk through rice terraces and forests to reach Tashigaon, the last permanent settlement on the trail.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 2,100 meters / 6,890 feet
- Walking Duration: 4–5 hours
- Overnight Stay: Tashigaon
Full Description
The path ascends gently through the hillside villages of Murmidanda.
You walk past small farms growing cardamom and millet.
The trail enters cool, damp forests before reaching Tashigaon.
This Sherpa village is the final point to restock on snacks or batteries before entering the uninhabited high-altitude wilderness.
Enjoy the views of the valley below as the air begins to cool.
Day 6: Trek from Tashigaon to Khongma Danda
Trekkers face a challenging ascent through cloud forests and stone stairs to reach the ridge at Khongma Danda.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 3,500 meters / 11,483 feet
- Walking Duration: 6–7 hours
- Trek Difficulty: Strenuous
- Overnight Stay: Khongma Danda
Full Description
You leave the villages behind and climb steep stone steps into the Rhododendron forests.
The elevation gain is significant today, exceeding 1,400 meters.
You pass grazing pastures like Unshisa before reaching the ridge top.
Khongma Danda is a small resting place with basic stone huts.
Snow is common here in early spring and late autumn.
Day 7: Acclimatization at Khongma Danda
Trekkers spend a rest day hiking to nearby viewpoints to prevent altitude sickness (AMS).
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Elevation: 3,500 meters / 11,483 feet
- Overnight Stay: Khongma Danda
Full Description
Rest is critical today to adapt to the thin air.
We recommend a short hike up the ridge toward the first pass.
From the viewpoint, you can see Mt. Makalu and Chamlang for the first time.
This active rest helps your body produce more red blood cells, preparing you for the Shipton La crossing tomorrow.
Day 8: Trek to Dobate via Shipton La Pass
Trekkers cross four high passes, including the Shipton La (4,170 m), before descending to Dobate.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 3,650 meters / 11,975 feet
- Passes Crossed: Kauma La (3,603 m), Tutu La (4,125 m), Shipton La (4,170 m), Keke La (4,170 m)
- Walking Duration: 7–8 hours
- Trek Difficulty: Strenuous
- Overnight Stay: Dobate
Full Description
This is one of the toughest days of the trek.
You climb the ridge, passing the sacred Kalo Pokhari lake adorned with prayer flags.
The trail traverses the Shipton La, offering majestic views of Chamlang and Kangchenjunga in the distance.
After crossing the Keke La, you descend through fir forests to Dobate.
The path can be snowy or icy, requiring careful footing.
Day 9: Trek from Dobate to Yangle Kharka
Trekkers descend into the Barun Valley and walk along the river to the grazing meadow of Yangle Kharka.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 3,600 meters / 11,811 feet
- Walking Duration: 6 hours
- Overnight Stay: Yangle Kharka
Full Description
You descend steeply through the forest to reach the Barun River.
The trail creates a dramatic atmosphere with towering granite cliffs on both sides.
This section is a hotspot for wildlife; keep an eye out for Blue Sheep or Red Pandas.
The walk flattens as you reach Yangle Kharka, a seasonal yak pasture with basic teahouses.
The valley floor is lush and contrasts sharply with the rocky peaks above.
Day 10: Trek from Yangle Kharka to Langmale Kharka
Trekkers ascend gradually through alpine meadows to reach the high camp at Langmale.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 4,450 meters / 14,600 feet
- Walking Duration: 5–6 hours
- Overnight Stay: Langmale Kharka
Full Description
The vegetation thins into alpine scrub and juniper bushes.
You pass the sacred cave of Shiva Dhara, a pilgrimage site for locals.
The silhouette of Mt. Makalu dominates the horizon.
Langmale Kharka offers stunning views of Peak 4, Peak 6, and Peak 7.
Nights here are freezing, so thermal layers are essential.
Day 11: Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Trekkers reach the foot of the world’s 5th highest mountain, exploring the rocky terrain of Makalu Base Camp.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Endpoint Elevation: 4,870 meters / 15,978 feet
- Walking Duration: 6–7 hours
- Overnight Stay: Makalu Base Camp
Full Description
You walk along the lateral moraine of the Barun Glacier.
The trail is rocky and barren, surrounded by icy giants.
Upon reaching Makalu Base Camp, the massive South Face of Makalu towers directly above you.
To the right, you can see the imposing Baruntse and the Lhotse Shalshar.
The sense of isolation and grandeur here is unmatched.
Day 12: Explore Makalu Base Camp
Trekkers spend the day exploring the glacier, the ridges, and the glacial lakes around the base camp.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Elevation: 4,870 meters / 15,978 feet
- Highlights: Close-up views of Makalu, Barun Glacier, Mt. Everest (Kangshung face)
- Overnight Stay: Makalu Base Camp
Full Description
We hike to a nearby ridge for a better vantage point of the Everest Kangshung Face.
You can explore the edge of the Barun Glacier and the glacial lakes.
This day allows you to soak in the raw beauty of the Himalayas without the rush of trekking.
Watch for avalanches thundering down the face of Makalu (from a safe distance).
Day 13–18: Return Trek to Num
Trekkers retrace their steps back to Num, enjoying the changing perspectives of the valley.
- Day 13: Trek to Yangle Kharka.
- Day 14: Trek to Dobate.
- Day 15: Trek to Khongma Danda.
- Day 16: Trek to Tashigaon.
- Day 17: Trek to Seduwa.
- Day 18: Trek to Num.
Full Description
The return journey follows the same route but often feels different as you face away from the high peaks.
The descent from Khongma Danda to Tashigaon is particularly long and knee-jarring.
You exit the Makalu Barun National Park at Seduwa.
The final climb from the Arun River back up to Num on Day 18 is a final physical test.
Day 19: Drive to Tumlingtar
Trekkers take a jeep drive back to Tumlingtar to prepare for the flight.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Tumlingtar
Day 20: Fly to Kathmandu
Trekkers fly back to Kathmandu, concluding the adventure.
Overview
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
- Overnight Stay: Kathmandu
Full Description
After a morning flight, you return to the comfort of your Kathmandu hotel.
In the evening, Travel To Nepal hosts a farewell dinner to celebrate your achievement.
Cost Inclusion & Exclusion
Included Service & Amenities
- Airport Transfer: Private vehicle pickup and drop-off (arrival/departure).
- Flights: Round-trip flight Kathmandu–Tumlingtar–Kathmandu.
- Local Transport: Private Jeep Tumlingtar–Num–Tumlingtar.
- Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Kathmandu (twin-sharing) and basic teahouses/lodges during the trek.
- Permits: Makalu Barun National Park Permit and Makalu Rural Municipality Permit.
- Staff: Experienced English-speaking guide and porters (1 porter for every 2 trekkers).
- Gear: Duffel bag, sun hat, and trekking map (to keep).
- Medical: First aid kit and Oximeter carried by the guide.
- Farewell Dinner: Traditional Nepali dinner on the last night.
Excluded From The Package
- Meals on Trek: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek (allow ~$25-30 USD per day).
- Visa: Nepal on-arrival visa fee.
- Insurance: Travel insurance including high-altitude emergency evacuation (mandatory).
- Personal Expenses: WiFi, hot showers, battery charging, boiled water, beverages.
- Tips: Gratuities for guide and porter (expected).
What Are the Best Scenic Spots in Makalu Region?
The Makalu trail is visually dramatic due to the contrast between the lush Barun Valley and the arid high peaks.
- Khongma Danda Ridges: From the ridge above Khongma, you can capture the Kangshung Face of Everest and Lhotse at sunrise.
- Shipton La Pass: This pass provides a frame of Mt. Makalu flanked by Chamlang. It is the perfect spot for wide-angle panoramic photography.
- Barun Valley Floor: Near Yangle Kharka, the vertical granite cliffs and waterfalls create a “Yosemite-like” landscape nestled in the Himalayas.
- Makalu Base Camp: The South Face of Makalu dominates the frame here. The reflection of the peak in the glacial lakes near the camp offers award-winning photo opportunities.
- Kalo Pokhari: A sacred high-altitude lake that offers moody, atmospheric shots, especially when mist rolls over the dark waters.
Facilities Available During the Trek
Facilities on the Makalu Base Camp trek are basic and functional. Do not expect the “teahouse luxury” found in the Annapurna or Everest regions.
Typical Meals
- Limited Menu: Teahouses serve simple, energy-dense meals. Dal Bhat (rice and lentils) is the staple.
- Other Options: Noodle soups (Thukpa), fried potatoes, Tibetan bread, and pancakes are usually available.
- Meat: We advise avoiding meat on the trek as storage capabilities are non-existent in this remote valley.
- Water: Boiled water is available for purchase. We strongly recommend using sterilization tablets or a filter bottle to reduce plastic waste and cost.
Lodging Standards
- Basic Huts: Accommodation consists of stone or wooden huts. Rooms are often small cubicles with wooden partitions.
- Bedding: Foam mattresses are provided, but they may be thin. A high-quality sleeping bag (rated -15°C) is mandatory for warmth and hygiene.
- Toilets: Squat toilets are the norm. They are shared and often located outside the main building.
- Charging/WiFi: Electricity is solar-powered and weather-dependent. Charging may cost extra or be unavailable on cloudy days. WiFi is generally not available past Tashigaon.
Transportation
- Flight: The trip relies on the Tumlingtar flight. Be aware that flights can be delayed by weather.
- Jeep: The drive from Tumlingtar to Num is off-road and bumpy. We use sturdy local jeeps for this segment.
Best Time to Trek to Makalu Base Camp
Spring (March to May) and Autumn (October to November) are the only safe windows for this trek due to the high passes.
Autumn (October to November)
Autumn is the premier season for Makalu Base Camp due to crystal-clear visibility.
- Views: The post-monsoon air provides the sharpest mountain views.
- Trail: The tracks are dry, reducing leech activity in the lower forests.
- Weather: Days are sunny, but nights are very cold above 4,000 meters.
- Festivals: You may experience Dashain or Tihar festivals in the lower villages during October.
Spring (March to May)
Spring transforms the lower trek into a vibrant garden.
- Flora: The Rhododendron forests between Tashigaon and Khongma bloom in red, pink, and white.
- Temperature: It is warmer than autumn, making the high camps slightly more comfortable.
- Haze: Views may be slightly hazier in the afternoons compared to autumn.
Changing Himalayan Seasons
Climate change is altering traditional trekking windows.
- Spring Shifts: Spring warmth is arriving earlier, meaning flowers may bloom by late February.
- Monsoon Delays: The monsoon is extending into late September or early October. We recommend planning for mid-October rather than early October to avoid lingering rains and leeches.
- Buffer Days: Always include the buffer days in your itinerary to account for flight cancellations caused by erratic weather.
How to Physically Prepare for the Makalu Trek?
The Makalu Base Camp Trek is physically more demanding than Everest Base Camp due to the relentless steep stone stairs and rapid elevation changes.
Physical Requirement
- Endurance: You must be able to walk 6–8 hours daily on uneven terrain with a light daypack.
- Leg Strength: The trail from Arun River to Seduwa and Tashigaon to Khongma involves thousands of steep steps. Strong quads and calves are essential.
- Cardio: You need a high VO2 max capacity to handle the thin air at Shipton La (4,170 m) and Base Camp (4,870 m).
Training Guide
Start training 12–16 weeks before your departure.
- Stair Climbing: This is the best specific training for Makalu. Climb stairs with a weighted pack (8–10 kg) 3 times a week.
- Cardio: Run, swim, or cycle 3–4 times a week for 45–60 minutes to build heart-lung efficiency.
- Leg Blasters: Incorporate lunges, squats, and step-ups to build the stability needed for rocky descents.
- Hiking: Do at least one long hike (5+ hours) on weekends to condition your feet and boots.
Health Precautions and Safety Advice
Altitude Sickness (AMS)
Makalu Base Camp reaches 4,870 meters, and you cross passes over 4,000 meters early in the trek.
- Acclimatize: Our itinerary includes a mandatory rest day at Khongma Danda. Do not skip this.
- Symptoms: Watch for headaches, nausea, or dizziness. Inform your guide immediately.
- Hydration: Drink 3–4 liters of water daily.
- Meds: Carry Diamox (Acetazolamide) but use it only under medical advice or guide instruction.
Safety Measures
- Travel To Nepal Protocol: Our guides carry pulse oximeters to check your oxygen saturation daily.
- Emergency: In severe cases, helicopter evacuation is the only rapid exit. Ensure your insurance covers evacuation up to 5,000 meters.
- Group Travel: Do not trek solo. The trail is isolated, and getting lost can be fatal.
Complete Packing Guide for Makalu Trek
Pack light but prepare for extremes—from humid jungle heat to freezing alpine cold.
Clothing & Layers
- Head: Sun hat, warm wool beanie, UV-protection sunglasses.
- Upper Body: Moisture-wicking base layers (2), fleece jacket, down jacket (-20°C rated), waterproof hard shell jacket.
- Lower Body: Lightweight trekking pants (for low altitude), warm soft-shell pants (for high altitude), waterproof over-pants.
- Hands: Liner gloves and warm insulated gloves.
Trekking Gear
- Boots: Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots with good ankle support (break them in before the trip!).
- Sleeping Bag: Rated to -15°C or -20°C. Teahouse blankets are insufficient.
- Poles: Adjustable trekking poles are highly recommended for the steep stone steps.
- Backpack: 30–40L daypack for water, camera, and layers.
Personal Items
- Water: 2 reusable bottles and purification tablets/filter.
- Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, wet wipes, quick-dry towel, toilet paper (buy in Kathmandu).
- First Aid: Blister plasters, painkillers, personal medication.
- Headlamp: Essential for early starts and unlit teahouses.
- Power: High-capacity power bank (20,000 mAh) as charging is scarce.
Spotting Wildlife on the Makalu Trail
The Makalu Barun National Park is a biodiversity hotspot.
- Red Panda: The bamboo forests near Seduwa and Tashigaon are prime habitats for this elusive, adorable mammal.
- Himalayan Tahr & Blue Sheep: Often seen grazing on the steep cliffs near Yangle Kharka.
- Birdlife: The park hosts over 400 species of birds. Look for the Danphe (Himalayan Monal) and Spiny Babbler.
- Leopards: While extremely rare, Snow Leopards roam the high alpine ridges, and Clouded Leopards inhabit the lower forests.
- Rules: strictly follow “Leave No Trace” principles. Do not disturb wildlife or damage the flora.
Key Points to Know Before Trekking
- Permits: You need the Makalu Barun National Park Permit and the Makalu Rural Municipality Permit.
- Cash: Bring enough Nepali Rupees (NPR) from Kathmandu. There are no ATMs after Khandbari/Tumlingtar.
- Leeches: In the lower forests (Num to Tashigaon), leeches are common, especially in post-monsoon (October). Carry salt or leech socks.
- Remoteness: This is a wilderness trek. If you need 5-star comfort, this is not the trek for you. If you need adventure, it is perfect.
FAQ
Is the Makalu Base Camp Trek difficult?
Yes, it is considered a strenuous trek. The trail involves steep ascents and descents on stone stairs and crosses four passes over 3,500 meters.
Do I need a guide?
Yes. Due to the remote nature of the trail, the risk of getting lost, and the lack of support infrastructure, a licensed guide is essential for safety.
Is there WiFi on the trek?
WiFi is virtually non-existent past Tashigaon. Prepare to be offline and enjoy the digital detox.
Can I charge my phone/camera?
Charging is available in some teahouses via solar power, but it is unreliable. Bring a high-capacity power bank or solar charger.
What happens if I get sick?
Our guides are trained in first aid and altitude sickness management. For serious conditions, we arrange helicopter evacuation funded by your travel insurance.
Is it safe to drink the water?
No, tap/river water is not safe. You must treat all drinking water with purification tablets or a high-quality filter.